Your AC is a lifesaver on a hot summer day. When the summer heat kicks in in Norco, LA, nothing feels as satisfying as a refreshingly air-conditioned home. Unfortunately, running your AC in extreme heat can have negative effects on your HVAC system. From reduced efficiency that spikes energy costs to mechanical stress that causes breakdowns, operating your AC in intense heat can cause damage to your system—and your budget.
The problem is, oppressive heat is when many homeowners depend on their air conditioner to keep their home cool. Fortunately, there are simple things you can do to help your AC unit perform under pressure. This blog will discuss ways high temperatures affect your AC and summer cooling tips to help you stay cool while avoiding unnecessary wear and tear on your AC.
Why Your AC May Not Keep Up with the Heat
When it's extremely hot outside, there's a significant gap between the hot outdoor temperature and the ideal indoor climate you expect. Cooling your home down to the desired indoor temperature requires a lot of energy on the part of your AC unit, requiring it to run constantly to try to cool down your home.
How Extreme Heat Impacts Air Conditioning Performance
When your AC unit has to work extra hard in high heat it becomes less effective—which in turn increases your utility bills. Running your AC in extreme heat can push your system too hard, especially the compressor, possibly causing damage or for it to break. The load caused by hot weather also can cause wear and tear on other parts, leading to mechanical issues that require air conditioning repair.
The Importance of Proper Sizing of Your AC
Lowering the chances of your AC shutting down in extreme temps starts with selecting the right size air conditioner for your home. An air conditioner that's too small can have trouble ensuring your comfort even on a slightly warm afternoon. Units that are larger than necessary waste energy and may cause uneven cooling or high humidity.
During air conditioning installation at Mayeuxs AC & Heating, our skilled cooling professionals analyze your home’s specific layout and features and your personal cooling needs to find the ideal AC for your home. Factors like your home's overall dimensions, number of windows and insulation levels are all evaluated to make sure your air conditioner has the capacity to maintain comfort.
How AC Maintenance Helps Protect Your AC During High Heat
One of the most effective strategies to increase air conditioning efficiency during heat waves is to schedule expert air conditioning maintenance. During our pre-summer service calls, qualified professionals inspect your system—checking things like internal components, connections and coolant amounts. They also enhance system performance by cleaning out buildup and debris and swapping out clogged filters, reducing strain by improving airflow through the system. The technicians at Mayeuxs AC & Heating also look for any signs of wear or brewing problems to repair, which can help prevent avoidable breakdowns during extreme heat.
Residents can help safeguard their AC by doing DIY maintenance in the summer heat. Activities such as swapping out old AC air filters and making sure the coils on the outdoor unit are clean go a long way in enabling the unit to operate efficiently.
Common Myths About Staying Cool in Extreme Temperatures
Several misconceptions exist about using your AC effectively in high temperatures. Here are three clarifications to the most common myths we hear about how to stay comfortable during a heatwave:
- Setting your thermostat extremely low does not make your home colder faster. Your AC runs at the same speed no matter where you set the thermostat.
- Shutting your AC off completely when you're not home does not reduce your utility bills. Instead, it allows your house to heat up and leave your system with extra work when you get back home and turn it on. It's better to adjust the setting slightly when you leave—but still leave your AC running.
- Selecting a larger-than-needed AC unit for your home isn’t the best choice. While high-capacity models have more power, they can finish cooling quickly and shut off too soon, causing inconsistent temperatures, high humidity and other problems. A unit that's appropriately sized cools your home better.
Strategies to Help Your System Handle Extreme Heat
There are many things homeowners can do to reduce the risk of an AC overload during heatwaves—while also enjoying a cool and comfortable home:
- Set your thermostat a little higher and use fans to circulate air and make the room more comfortable
- Do basic AC upkeep in between professional HVAC maintenance visits like inspecting and replacing air filters, and rinsing outdoor unit coils
- Shut blinds and curtains to reduce heat gain from sunlight
- Seal windows and doors to prevent cool air from leaking out or hot air getting in
- Don't run heat-generating appliances like ovens, stoves, dishwashers and clothes dryers when there are high temps
Reduce Air Conditioning Problems During Hot Weather with AC Maintenance from Mayeuxs AC & Heating
Ensure your air conditioner is prepared for the hot weather in Norco, LA, with AC maintenance from Mayeuxs AC & Heating. Our crews will carefully inspect and clean your unit, making sure it’s operating at peak efficiency. Book your appointment by reaching out to our team at (985) 764-2426 today!
